The Microsoft Windows 10 operating system includes a standard file browser utility known as Windows Explorer. By default, Windows Explorer will hide certain types of files from view as you open and expand folders on your hard drive. These hidden files are typically system-related and do not need to be opened or modified. However, you may encounter errors when trying to delete folders or move them to an external media device. If so, you should try to make all hidden files visible and then delete them manually as needed.
Step 1: Open the Start menu by clicking on the icon in the lower-left corner of the screen.
Step 2: Click on the “File Explorer” tile to launch the Windows Explorer tool. You can also click “This PC” or the name of a specific document folder.
Step 3: Go to the “View” tab at the top of the Windows Explorer window.
Step 4: Click on the “Options” button at the far right side of the top menubar and then choose the “Change folder and search options.” This will open a new preferences window that contains a variety of settings related to Windows Explorer.
Step 5: Go to the “View” tab in the new preferences window.
Step 6: Look under the “Files and Folders” category of advanced settings for the option labeled “Hidden files and folders.”
Step 7: Select the radio button next to “Show.” This will make all objects in Windows Explorer visible, including both files and folders.
Step 8: Click the “OK” or “Apply” button to save the settings. Now when you browse folders in Windows Explorer, all items will be displayed, including previously hidden files.
More information on hidden files can be found on the Microsoft support website. You can also reverse the setting change at any time by choosing the “Don’t show” radio button from the Windows Explorer options window.
